United Way Worldwide is spotlighting United Way of Roanoke Valley's Smart2Start Program is International Model of Innovation.

Smart2Start, which United Way of Roanoke Valley created in 2020, joins public school systems, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and private providers to give all families access to early care and education resources. The collaboration ensures that every child enters kindergarten with the skills they need to succeed in school and in life.

The global office of United Way has published a case study about Smart2Start, to share the program with communities worldwide as an example of how localities can help families find affordable childcare and preschools that are just the right fit.

Smart2Start grew from the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Early Childhood Foundation's commitment to early childcare and development, with UWRV launching the state's first childcare enrollment system.

"So many parents were able to discover options for their children that they didn't realize they had," said Vivien McMahan, Vice President of Community Impact at United Way of Roanoke Valley. "We've been able to closely align Smart2Start with Virginia's established priorities and investment into early childhood development, and its close relation to lifelong success."

You can read the full case study below; visit smart2start.org to learn more.